Even though carmakers say their EV lithium-ion batteries are built to last as long as the car itself, it’s a fact that these batteries gradually lose some of their ability to hold a full charge over time. Luckily, there are smart ways to care for your EV’s battery to make sure it lasts as long as possible. Keep reading for our top tips:

1. Establish A Smart Daily Charging Routine

Consistent charging habits are key to making your electric car’s lithium-ion battery pack last longer. While charging regularly won’t magically give you more range, it helps keep the battery healthy. We suggest setting up a regular charging schedule at home using a low-voltage wall charger (AC charger). This method gently tops up your battery, keeping it ready for your daily trips. Regular, slower charging puts less stress on your battery compared to frequent fast charging (DC charging), which is best saved for when you’re on the go and need a quick boost.

Just like with cell phones, experts advise EV owners to avoid charging their batteries to a full 100% for everyday use. Instead, aim for a charge level of around 80-90% for your daily commutes. When you get home, try to avoid letting the battery level drop below 20%, as very low charges can speed up battery degradation. If you need maximum range for a long road trip, go ahead and charge to 100%, but do it just before you leave to minimise the time the battery spends at that full charge.

2. Utilise Regenerative Braking Whenever Possible

Almost all EVs sold in India, from the Tata Nexon EV to the MG ZS EV, comes with regenerative braking. This clever system turns the energy usually lost during braking into electrical energy, which is then stored back in your battery. Simply put, your EV’s motor acts like a generator, capturing kinetic energy (the energy of movement) that would normally be wasted as heat. This recovered energy can then be used to extend your electric vehicle’s driving range, making your drives more efficient.

3. Reduce Aerodynamic Drag

Just like how a sleek sports car cuts through the air easily, reducing air resistance significantly improves an EV’s efficiency and range. If you own an electric car, a simple tip to boost your EV efficiency is to remove roof racks, bicycle racks, or any other external accessories when you’re not using them. Even though it might take a little effort, doing so can noticeably increase your EV’s range by reducing aerodynamic drag. Also, keeping your windows closed helps your EV move through the air more efficiently, requiring less energy.

4. Avoid Fully Discharging Your Battery

One of the most important rules for any EV owner is to avoid letting the battery drain completely. Always try to recharge your EV before the battery level falls below 20%. Repeatedly allowing a deep discharge can lead to reduced battery performance and a shorter lifespan over time. If you don’t need the full range of your battery for a particular trip, there’s no need to use it all up. Keeping it in the 20-80% or 20-90% sweet spot is ideal for optimal EV battery health.

5. Charge More Frequently

Maintaining a consistently well-charged battery is crucial for the long-term health of your EV’s battery. Instead of waiting for the battery to get very low, make it a habit to charge your electric vehicle more frequently, perhaps every 2-3 days, or whenever it drops below your preferred minimum (like 20-30%). By doing so, you ensure the battery stays in good condition, always ready for your next trip, and helps prevent unnecessary stress on the battery cells. This is part of a good EV charging habit.

6. Moderate Your Acceleration

While the instant push of torque from electric vehicles like the Tata Tiago EV can be very exciting, it’s wise to accelerate smoothly. Long periods of hard, sudden acceleration cause a rapid draw of current from the batteries. This not only significantly reduces your immediate driving range but can also lead to faster tire wear. To maintain optimal battery performance, maximize your EV range, and extend the life of your tires, aim for a smoother, more gradual driving style.

By following these simple yet effective guidelines, you can significantly prolong the performance and longevity of your electric car’s battery, ensuring a more enjoyable and cost-effective EV ownership experience.

Also Read: Front Parking Sensors – Detailed Feature Explained

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